Bear Trauma

[Barney Farm Chick]

Hello all,

Last Friday night I lost 3 chickens (of 6) to a bear. I have cleaned the coop/run, added clean dirt, removed all traces of feathers, yet the remaining chickens are very stressed. They don't allow me near them now, and they are very friendly. Does anyone have any advice how to help them over their stress? They were not laying well at all, but they are not laying at all now.

(The current coop is now very secure, as we have nailed things shut where we could, to help with stress and security we are building a new coop with a new run).

Advice is very welcome

 

[User690263]

One way that you can get them to come close to you again is to give them treats when you're nearby, slowly putting the treats closer to you, until they get to the point where they can eat them out of your hand. I'm sorry for your losses.

 

[Sequel]

I’m really sorry! It will take them time to readjust. Chickens are resilient so be patient and they should come around.
I haven’t had bear trouble but I have had raccoon and hawk/owl attacks. They are upset for a short while but soon get that sorted out.

 

[Barney Farm Chick]

One way that you can get them to come close to you again is to give them treats when you're nearby, slowly putting the treats closer to you, until they get to the point where they can eat them out of your hand. I'm sorry for your losses.

Yes, I have always given them meal worms by hand, at least they don't run from me, will continue to persevere. Thank you for responding.